Communities across Scotland are being urged to register their local area for interest as part of plans for a new national park.

There are currently two national parks in Scotland – the Cairngorms, and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs.

The Scottish government has pledged “at least one” new park will be designated by spring 2026.

A consultation began last year and a draft appraisal framework with broad selection criteria has now been published as part of the plans.

Individuals, groups or organisations considering making a proposal can now register early interest ahead of nominations officially opening later this year once the appraisal framework has been finalised following consultation.

Lorna Slater, minister for green skills, circular economy and biodiversity, is encouraging everyone to get involved.

During a visit to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park on Thursday, the MSP for Lothian said: “Our existing national parks play an important role in tackling the biodiversity and climate crises, whilst also supporting local communities, businesses and visitors.

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“Last year we consulted widely on the future of national parks in Scotland, and there was broad support for our commitment to create at least one new park by 2026.”

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The Scottish government said it is already aware of several communities and groups that are keen to put their ideas forward for national park status.

The government said the appraisal framework “will help to ensure the nomination process is fair, transparent and inclusive”.

There is no requirement to register interest in order to submit a nomination, but interested parties will be kept up-to-date with important information and key dates throughout the process.

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Gordon Watson, chief executive of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “Scotland has set ambitious targets to reach net zero and to restore biodiversity by 2045.

“If we are to reach those targets, urgent, bold action is required and Scotland’s existing – and any new – national parks can make a substantial contribution.

“Through scaling up our efforts to lock-in carbon in the landscape, restore nature at scale and enable a greener low-emission economy, we can, together, help Scotland make significant progress towards these commitments.”

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